Troop reduction in Iraq 'a victory for Islam'

Al-Qaida’s deputy leader said recent hints by American officials of a troop reduction in Iraq were “a victory for Islam,” in a videotape aired today.

Ayman al-Zawahri, wearing a white turban and grey robe and seated next to an automatic rifle, waved his finger for emphasis as he spoke.

“I congratulate (the Islamic nation) for the victory of Islam in Iraq,” he said.

Al-Zawahri was apparently referring to recent comments by US Defence Secretary Donald Rumsfeld, who on December 22 hinted that the US military will soon begin reducing its troop strength in Iraq below 138,000.

The al-Jazeera broadcaster said the videotape was dated in December but gave no specific date.